Thiruvananthapuram, 30 Sept (H.S.): The Kerala government is considering tougher measures against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with the Transport Department seeking legal advice on tightening bail conditions and confiscating vehicles involved in such offences.

A final decision will be taken after consultations with the Home Department. The proposals are aimed at strengthening enforcement against impaired driving and preventing dangerous behaviour on the state’s roads.

According to the department, drunk driving is currently treated as a bailable offence. Non-bailable provisions are generally invoked when an incident results in death or serious injuries. The government is examining whether this approach can be changed to enable stronger action against offenders.

The legal consultation will help determine how the proposed changes can be implemented. The measures remain under consideration, and their final form will depend on the advice received and discussions between the departments concerned.

Alongside the proposed enforcement changes, the government will soon launch the Kerala Road Safety Mission, a programme intended to curb traffic violations through public awareness and stricter legal action.

A high-level committee has been constituted for the initiative, with the Transport Minister serving as vice-chairman. Ministers handling Home, Public Works, Health, General Education, Higher Education and Social Justice are members.

The mission’s activities will be extended to the panchayat level, bringing road safety efforts closer to local communities. Its approach will combine awareness programmes with enforcement, seeking to improve public understanding of traffic rules while ensuring action against violations.

Road safety lessons will also be incorporated into the school curriculum as part of the programme. The move is intended to familiarise children with responsible road use and the importance of following traffic regulations.

The proposed crackdown and the mission together reflect the government’s plan to address unsafe driving through coordinated departmental action, community participation, education and stronger enforcement across Kerala.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman